10% Off: See The Marine Big 5 on an Ocean Safari Boat Trip

Three species of whale, four of dolphins, African penguins in their natural habitat, Cape fur seals and elusive mola mola (sunfish). Did you know you can spot them all on a fun Ocean Safari boat trip right from the V&A?

ALL ABOUT FUN, CONSERVATION AND EDUCATIONOur friends at Ocean Experiences do boat trips a little differently. Yes, it’s fun – just wait until your skipper opens up both motors on the rib boat. But they’re all about the experience: You’re actively going out to spot marine species in the wild. They educate you on each animal, explaining the complex social structures around one of the city’s lesser-known seal colonies, exploring the habits of the Cape’s dolphin species, safely spotting species of whale ...

WHAT TO EXPECT ON AN OCEAN SAFARIEach trip lasts 1.5 hours. You meet at Quay 5 at the V&A for an exciting briefing, put on life vests and board the rib boat. There are some incredible Table Mountain and harbour photo ops to be had as you exit Cape Town harbour by water, and then the hunt to spot as many of the Marine Big 5 as possible begins.

CapeTownMagazine.com was lucky enough to experience this boat trip recently. And the Ocean Safari is a definite must for both locals and tourists. We spotted numerous whales, two species of dolphin, extremely amicable seals and African penguins in their natural habitat out on open water. All just a few minutes outside of Cape Town harbour.

The big surprise was the hot chocolates and cookies we shared while parked at Strawberry Rocks. Just made a bucket list experience so much more special.

Tip: Ask them about the mola mola dance to attract sunfish.

A BOAT TRIP EVERYONE CAN ENJOYWhat’s cool about the Ocean Safari is that it gives anyone and everyone the chance to get close to and learn about our marine life in their natural habitat. You don’t have to be fit, qualified or skilled in anything, just board the boat and help spot marine life. It’s something everyone, from grandma to the teens, can enjoy.

Just note: As a general rule, your feet need to be able to touch the ground when on the straddle-style seats of the rib boat, so generally kids need to be around 10 or older to enjoy this activity safely.